A great under the radar Oregon winery, Ruby sources from some of the state’s oldest Pinot Noir vines planted in 1973. Located only 30 minutes from downtown Portland, Ruby sources from vines planted on Laurelwood soils. Eric Hamacher serves as consulting winemaker, while Andrew Kirkland, a Seattle transplant, is assistant winemaker at Ruby. Eric has a storied career, possessing a degree in viticulture and enology at UC Davis, and has worked roughly 25 vintages at numerous wineries throughout world including stints at Chalone, Etude and Mondavi.
The new releases were all very good across the board. The 2015 Ruby ‘WIllamette Valley’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 91) is an outstanding value, priced at a mere $22.00, showing wonderful richness from this warm vintage. Even better was the 2015 Ruby ‘Estate Blend’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 92) sourced from older vines and showing wonderful red fruits with lovely citrus accents. Learn more about this great winery at http://www.rubyvineyard.com Here are the great new wines by Ruby.
2017 Ruby ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Gris- This golden colored wine starts off with pear and mango on the nose. The acidity is vibrant here with bright kumquat, starfruit and baking spice flavors. Enjoy this bright Pinot Gris in the short-term with some sushi. Drink 2018-2022- 90
2015 Ruby ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- Rich, showing good poise considering the heat of the vintage, this showcases lovely red fruits on the nose and a similar profile on the palate. The sterling acidity and rich mouthfeel makes this impossible to resist. This is a truly outstanding value out of Oregon. Drink 2018-2024- 91
2015 Ruby ‘Estate Blend’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from old vines planted in both 1973 and 1979 this pale colored wine begins with aromatics reminiscent of orange zest, red cherry cordial and suggestions of teaberry. The palate has a vibrant acidity, showing a feminine character with rose water, blood orange and red cherry preserves. Nicely balanced, this gorgeous Pinot Noir will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2018-2028- 92